Buncrana concert to celebrate Inishowen’s rich musical heritage
Twixt Foyle and Swilly, which will take place at Buncrana Cinema on November 13, is bringing together the Inishowen Trad Chamber Ensemble and the Inishowen Trad Choir for a special evening
A concert celebrating Inishowen’s rich musical heritage and showcasing the songs and music that have been passed down through generations is to take place in Buncrana later this month.
Twixt Foyle and Swilly, which will take place at Buncrana Cinema on November 13, is bringing together the Inishowen Trad Chamber Ensemble and the Inishowen Trad Choir for a special evening celebrating the peninsula’s local musical heritage and highlighting the talent and creativity that continue to keep those traditions alive today.
The event is supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport through the 2026 Grassroots Venues Support Scheme, part of the government's night-time economy initiative.
The funding supports grassroots venues in providing opportunities for live performance and helping local music and culture thrive.
The concert also reflects the continued development of Buncrana Cinema as a multi-use venue. Since the introduction of the night-time economy initiative launched in Buncrana the cinema has gone from strength to strength, expanding beyond film screenings to host a growing range of music, arts , cultural and community events.
Speaking ahead of the concert, Anthony Barber from Buncrana Cinema said: “We're really looking forward to bringing these two fantastic groups together for what promises to be a special evening. We have such a wealth of talent here on the Inishowen peninsula, and it's wonderful to be able to provide a space where that talent can be celebrated and enjoyed. “Since the night-time economy pilot began in 2024, Buncrana Cinema has gone from strength to strength, developing into much more than a cinema, it's now a multi-use space for music arts and culture.
“I also want to take the opportunity to sincerely thank the many groups, organizations, local businesses who have supported us over the years , There are too many to mention individually, but each played a part in the making Buncrana Cinema what it is today, We simply wouldn't be where we are without their support, encouragement and willingness to work with us, and I'm genuinely grateful to every one of them.
“I'd particularly like to acknowledge Sophie Gallagher, Buncrana’s night-time economy advisor whose continued support and encouragement have made a real difference to the cinema and Buncrana as a whole more than she may realise. I’d also like to sincerely thank Donegal County Council for its continued support and for the opportunities created through the Night-time Economy Pilot.
“We’re also grateful to the department of culture , communications and sport for supporting this concert through the 2026 grassroots venues support scheme. Funding like this makes a real difference to venues like ours and helps us bring more live events to the local community.”
Sophie Gallagher, the Buncrana night-time economy advisor, said: “On behalf of Donegal County Council, we are delighted to support this wonderful local production celebrating the wealth of musical talent in Inishowen.
“The night-time economy pilot is focused on developing safe, inclusive, and well-connected night-time activity in Buncrana after 6pm. A key part of this work is supporting the people who work at night and manage local venues, helping to create greater variety, opportunity, and resilience within our night-time economy.
“This production, made possible through funding from the Department for Culture, Communications and Sport’s Grassroots Venue Scheme, showcases the very best of Inishowen by bringing two groups together. Set in one of Buncrana’s most celebrated local venues, it highlights the exceptional musicians and performers whose talent has enriched our community for generations.
“The dedication of Anthony and his team to developing the cinema as a vibrant, multi-use space is a powerful example of what can be achieved when people work together. Buncrana Cinema’s continued success in securing this funding reflects the vital role that grassroots venues, live music, and local creativity play in strengthening our night-time economy and shaping a vibrant future for the area.”
Doors open at 7pm, with the event starting at 7.30pm. Tickets cost €15, plus a €1.50 booking fee, and are available through accessa.ie.